"The Boy and the Beast" (2016) is a magical adventure about Ren, a lonely boy who enters a world of beasts. There, he trains with a tough bear-warrior named Kumatetsu. Together, they learn about courage, family, and growing up. With fun fights and heartwarming moments, it’s a story of friendship and finding your true strength—perfect for kids who love exciting tales!"
The Boy and the Beast
Runtime: 1 Hours 59 Minutes
Audience Rating: 8.9/10
Critics Rating: 9.2/10
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy and Animation
Rating: PG-13
Release Date: 04 March 2016
OTT Release Date: 2016-06-07
Original Language: Japanese
Production House: Nippon Television Network, Studio Chizu and Kadokawa Pictures, Inc.
Distributor: FUNimation
Page Last Updated On: 19 August 2025
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Review:
Movie Review: The Boy and the Beast (2016)
The Boy and the Beast is a wonderful animated movie that takes you on an exciting adventure filled with action, emotions, and life lessons. Directed by Mamoru Hosoda, this film tells the story of a lonely boy named Ren who finds a new world and a new family in the most unexpected way.
The Story
Ren is a young boy who feels lost and alone after his mother passes away. He doesn’t want to live with his relatives, so he runs away into the busy streets of Tokyo. While wandering, he stumbles upon a strange world called Jutengai, a place where beast-people live. There, he meets a tough and grumpy bear-like warrior named Kumatetsu.
Kumatetsu is strong but also very stubborn. He wants to become the next lord of Jutengai, but he needs an apprentice to prove himself. Ren, who is now called Kyuta in this new world, agrees to become Kumatetsu’s student. At first, they don’t get along—Kyuta is rebellious, and Kumatetsu is impatient. But as they train together, they start to understand and care for each other.
The Characters
Kyuta (Ren) is a brave but troubled boy. He has a lot of anger inside him because of his past, but he slowly learns to trust and grow under Kumatetsu’s guidance. Kumatetsu, on the other hand, may seem rough, but deep down, he has a kind heart. He teaches Kyuta not just fighting skills but also important lessons about life.
There are other fun characters too, like Tatara, a monkey who is wise and friendly, and Hyakushubo, the current lord of Jutengai, who is very powerful and fair. Each character adds something special to the story.
Themes and Lessons
One of the best things about The Boy and the Beast is that it teaches us about family, friendship, and growing up. Kyuta and Kumatetsu may not be related by blood, but they become like father and son. They argue, they fight, but they also protect and love each other.
The movie also shows that everyone has darkness inside them, but it’s our choices that make us who we are. Kyuta struggles with his anger, and Kumatetsu learns to be more patient and understanding. Both of them grow stronger not just in fighting but also in their hearts.
Animation and Action
The animation in this movie is beautiful. The world of Jutengai is full of colorful and unique beast-people, and the action scenes are exciting. Watching Kyuta and Kumatetsu train and fight is thrilling. The battles are fast and powerful, but they also have meaning—every fight teaches them something new.
Emotional Moments
While there is a lot of action, the movie also has touching moments that might make you cry. Kyuta misses his human life and has to decide where he truly belongs. Kumatetsu, who once only cared about strength, learns what it means to truly care for someone. Their bond is heartwarming and shows that family isn’t just about blood—it’s about love and support.
Final Thoughts
The Boy and the Beast is a fantastic movie for both kids and adults. It has adventure, humor, and deep emotions that will keep you hooked from start to finish. The relationship between Kyuta and Kumatetsu is the heart of the story, and their journey teaches us about courage, love, and finding our place in the world.
If you love stories about friendship, fantasy worlds, and exciting battles, you will definitely enjoy this movie. It’s not just about fighting—it’s about growing up, facing your fears, and learning to trust others. A must-watch for anyone who loves a good adventure with a lot of heart!
Kumiko Asô
as Kyuta's Mother
(Voice)
Rirî Furankî
as Monk Momoaki
(Voice)
Suzu Hirose
as Kaede
(Voice)
Haru Kuroki
as Young Ichirohiko
(Voice)
Mamoru Miyano
as Ichirohiko
(Voice)
Aoi Miyazaki
as Young Kyuta
(Voice)
Sumire Morohoshi
as Chiko
(Voice)
Keishi Nagatsuka
as Kyuta's Father
(Voice)
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Atsushi Chiba
(Producer)
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Takuya Itô
(Producer)
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Genki Kawamura
(Producer)
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Yuichiro Sato
(Producer)
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Daisuke Kadoya
(Executive Producer)
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Masakatsu Takagi
(Original Music)
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Satoshi Masuda
(Casting)
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Yôichi Nishikawa
(Art Director)
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Takashi Ohmori
(Art Director)
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Yohei Takamatsu
(Art Director)
